Fake Alexa iOS app is phishing for your data
A fake Alexa set-up app quickly made the rounds in the Apple App store, before apparently being pulled by early evening Thursday. Found by 9to5Mac, the app, "Setup for Amazon Alexa," asked for an IP address, as well as the device's serial number.
For anyone who bought, or received an Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Show or any Alexa device, it's simple to activate an Echo without an app. Amazon Alexa speakers are some of the easier to launch, requiring little else then plugging them into an electrical outlet and then connecting them to a Prime account, if you have one. The device actually walks you through set-up through Alexa's voice assistant/
Smartphone apps can work with your Alexa, but aren't needed. The app was from a company called One World Software, and was in the top 100 of the "Top Free" apps at one point during the day. By early evening, the app could not be found in the App Store, nor any mention of its developer. Still, anyone who had downloaded the app during the day, should delete it from their smartphone.
For anyone needing help setting up an Amazon Alexa device, go instead to the Amazon Alexa site — which can be read from your smartphone without an app— and you can also check out GearBrain's glossary of Alexa set-up guides below.
Amazon Echo, an Alexa beginner's guide
How to find what works with Amazon Alexa
Amazon Echo: How to install a second Alexa speaker
Amazon Echo can help organize your life: Here's how
Best Amazon Alexa Skills for help in the kitchen
Amazon Alexa can switch on your TV
Amazon Alexa smart home routines: How to set them up
Alexa Blueprint will help you build your own Alexa Skill
